There is only one striker - veteran Miroslav Klose - listed in the final group of 23, although the likes of Lukas Podolski, Andre Schurrle and Thomas Muller provide a significant attacking threat from midfield.

As their training camp wrapped up, Low told the German football federation's website: "I was amazed at how all the players presented themselves in South Tyrol.

"Each individual has worked excellently. Players have done what I ask for. It is very hard to make this decision and Shkodran, Marcel and Kevin are naturally very disappointed. I understand that as they had every right to hope to be going to Brazil...

"Of all the players selected I have 100 per cent confidence. We have the right mix of youth and talent and players with lots of experience. Our squad is balanced, with two players in every position. Our players have character, this team has character, and we will go to Brazil with confidence and with big goals."

The players were taking a day off on Monday before meeting in Mainz on Friday to play Armenia. They are due to head to Brazil on Saturday.